Azerbaijan added to UNESCO World Network of Biosphere Reserves for first time

Azerbaijan has been included in the UNESCO World Network of Biosphere Reserves for the first time, following the designation of the "Greater Caucasus Biosphere Reserve."

According to Azerbaijan's Permanent Mission to UNESCO, cited by Report's European bureau, the decision was unanimously adopted during the 38th session of the International Coordinating Council of UNESCO's "Man and the Biosphere" programme.

The meeting is taking place in Hernandarias, Paraguay, where an Azerbaijani delegation from the Ministry of Ecology and Natural Resources and the Permanent Mission to UNESCO is participating.

The Greater Caucasus Biosphere Reserve is now officially part of the global network, marking a historic first for Azerbaijan. The Greater Caucasus range, stretching more than 1,100 kilometres between the Caspian and Black Seas, is considered one of the world's key biodiversity hotspots.

Officials highlighted the area's rich flora and fauna, including numerous endemic and rare species, underscoring the significance of UNESCO recognition for global conservation efforts.

The decision was also noted as symbolically important as it coincided with World Environment Day.

The Man and the Biosphere (MAB) programme, launched in 1971, currently includes more than 750 biosphere reserves across 136 countries, promoting biodiversity conservation and sustainable development worldwide.